Health

Movement and Stillness

June 1, 2015

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A Certified Eating Disorders Registered Dietitian (CEDRD) with a master's degree in dietetics & nutrition. My passion is helping you find peace with food - and within yourself.

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Movement is good for the body, and stillness is good for the mind…If we don't balance the sympathetic with the parasympathetic nervous system process, in which we deepen and rest, we eventually become wired, edgy and emotionally sensitive.

— Sakyong Mipham, Running with the Mind of Meditation

 

Movement is a natural state for our bodies.  Without movement our bodies deteriorate and we feel sluggish.  As human beings our largest muscle groups are those in the legs and buttocks, meaning that we are beautifully designed for activities that rely heavily upon these muscles such as walking, running, dancing, cycling, hiking, etc.  Engaging in these types of activities makes the muscles, bones, heart and lungs stronger.  It also enhances the functioning of certain organs like your pancreas and brain.  It's amazing how such simple movements can have a huge impact on multiple parts of the body.

Along with movement for our body, we also need stillness for our mind.  Throughout our hectic days the mind is constantly working, most of it on the subconscious level.  A well-trained mind is actually a mind that is conditioned for stillness.  Meditators have known this for centuries. 

Taking some time each day for stillness and mindfulness can be incredibly powerful.  Start with something as simple as closing your eyes and focusing on your breath for 5 minutes.  There are a ton of apps for your phone/tablet that can be used for meditation timers, or even guided meditations.  My favorites are Zazen and Stop, Think and Breathe.

Generally, with more stress there is less happiness. — Sakyong Mipham

 

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